St. Xavier’s Parish in Manipur Celebrates Golden Jubilee

Manipur, 11 December 2025: A significant moment in the faith journey of Manipur’s hill region unfolded as St. Xavier’s Parish, Thanlon, celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years of Catholic presence, missionary service, and community transformation.

A Thanksgiving Mass was presided over by Archbishop Linus Neli of Imphal, accompanied by eighteen priests, drawing a large and joyful gathering of the faithful.

A diverse assembly of leaders—Archbishop Linus Neli, Thanlon Chief Thangkhopau, clergy, religious, local dignitaries, and hundreds of parishioners—came together in a celebration that reflected the deep-rooted unity and faith shaping Thanlon’s Catholic community over five decades.

In a stirring homily, Archbishop Linus Neli highlighted the unique unity of the Catholic Church, stating,

“We come from different places, tribes, languages, and cultures, yet we remain strongly united in Christ.”

He reminded parishioners that while priests and sisters may come and go, Christ remains permanently present through the sacraments, sustaining the community through every challenge. He also extended heartfelt gratitude to all who have served the mission across the years.

Offering a perspective of renewal and hope, former Provincial Fr. Shushil, OSJ, spoke of the Jubilee as a moment to honor God’s fidelity. He expressed confidence that Thanlon would continue to grow spiritually and pastorally, and shared his joy at the establishment of another mission centre in Manipur.

Sharing a deeply personal reflection, previous Parish Priest Fr. Lourdhasamy—now serving at St. Mary’s Tuibuang—recalled the trials and blessings of building the parish, comparing his pastoral journey to a mother’s labor pains. He urged the community to avoid complacency and to embrace Jubilee as a time of forgiveness and renewed mission.

Adding historical insight, Thanlon Chief Thangkhopau recounted how former chief CH Dongchinpau generously donated land for the parish’s establishment. He highlighted the far-reaching impact of St. Xavier’s School, which has produced doctors, army officers, bank managers, gazetted officials, and other professionals. He appealed for the introduction of Classes 11 and 12 to meet the educational needs of youth in the region.

A broader look at Thanlon’s Christian journey reveals that the region, consisting of 37 villages and 24 hamlets with a recorded population of 13,816 in 1974, first encountered Christianity in 1910 through Welsh missionary Watkin Roberts. Catholicism began taking root decades later, marked by the 1956 visit of Bishop Marengo, SDB, and Fr. A. Ravalico, SDB.

A milestone came in 1975 with the founding of St. Xavier’s Catholic School and the official inauguration of the parish. The pioneering efforts of Fr. Immanuel, Fr. Thomas, and Bro. James of the Indian Missionary Society laid a strong foundation for Catholic life in the region.

Standing at 50 years, St. Xavier’s Parish remains a symbol of unity, resilience, and growth—deeply rooted in faith and strengthened by the commitment of missionaries and local leaders.

The Golden Jubilee ultimately served as both a tribute to the past and a pledge to the future: to remain steadfast in faith, to serve with renewed vigor, and to continue nurturing a vibrant Catholic presence in Thanlon for generations to come.

By Tungthang